N. Chandrababu Naidu, speaking at the ET World Leaders Forum (WLF) 2025, emphasized that India must strive to become the number one economy in the world. He highlighted the importance of producing global brands and leveraging technology to achieve this goal.

Naidu has been a proponent of economic reforms and technological advancement for decades. He played a key role in transforming Andhra Pradesh into a global investment destination, pioneering reforms in technology, infrastructure, and sustainable development. As the architect of HITEC City in Hyderabad, he attracted global tech giants and positioned the state as a hub for technology and innovation.

At the ET WLF 2025, Naidu reiterated his confidence in India's potential, noting the country's advantages in economic reforms, information technology, and demographics. He lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, stating that the convergence of the right timing, circumstances, and leadership is driving India's momentum. He believes that India has the capacity to grow and that nothing can stop it from achieving its deserved economic prowess.

Naidu also stressed the importance of building indigenous global brands. He observed that while India uses global brands, it needs to contribute to their creation. This requires a focus on innovation, research and development, and creating a supportive ecosystem for Indian entrepreneurs.

Andhra Pradesh, under Naidu's leadership, is taking concrete steps towards embracing future technologies. The state government plans to launch a quantum computer in Amaravati by 2026, signaling its commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements. Naidu envisions Amaravati as a competitor to Hyderabad and aims to complete the project, developing it into a world-class, sustainable capital city with cutting-edge infrastructure, green spaces, and advanced urban mobility solutions.

Several reports suggest a positive outlook for India's economic growth in the coming years. Prime Minister Modi has stated that India is the world's fastest-growing economy and is poised to become the third-largest economy soon. He noted the macroeconomic stability achieved over the past decade, with a narrowing fiscal deficit, stronger banks, and consistent domestic investment. Experts predict India's contribution to global growth will reach around 20%. Deloitte anticipates India to grow between 6.4% and 6.7% in fiscal year 2025-2026, supported by a resilient consumer base, a broadening investment landscape, and a digitally skilled workforce. The State Bank of India (SBI) projects India's economy to grow between 6.8% and 7% in the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, exceeding the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) forecast.

However, some reports suggest a slightly more conservative outlook. The SBI anticipates a 6.3% GDP growth for the entire fiscal year 2026, slightly below the RBI's 6.5% target. The Economic Survey suggests that strategic and prudent policy management will be required to navigate global headwinds.

Despite these challenges, the overall sentiment remains optimistic. India's strong macroeconomic fundamentals, coupled with its focus on technology, innovation, and human capital development, position it favorably for continued economic growth. Naidu's call to aim for the number one economy reflects a broader ambition to see India take its place as a global leader in all spheres.